Simple, spicy and yummy!!
Here is a recipe for South Indian style cilantro chutney with jaggery and jalapenos – it’s a sweet and savory chutney which can be used as a dip or condiment to complement multiple other foods – from chips to rice.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated jaggery
- 2-3 jalapenos, seeded and chopped (less or more based on the spice levels)
- 1/4 cup grated coconut (optional)
- 1/4 cup roasted chana dal
- 1 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1/2 tsp salt
- water as needed
Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, jaggery, jalapenos, coconut (if using), roasted chana dal, tamarind paste, and salt.
- I sauted the Jalapenos along with the Chana Dal + added the cilantro in the hot sauce pan to wilt it a bit.
- Add water as needed to blend the ingredients into a smooth paste.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the chutney to a serving bowl and serve with dosa, idli, or any South Indian Dish — or with Potato or Corn Chips.
What is Jaggery?
Jaggery
Jaggery (also spelled as “jaggeree” or “gur”) is a type of unrefined cane sugar that is commonly used in South Asian and Southeast Asian cuisines. It is made from the sap of palm trees or sugarcane juice that is boiled to produce a thick, dark syrup, which is then cooled and solidified into blocks or cakes.
Jaggery is known for its distinctive flavor that is often described as caramel-like with a hint of molasses. It is used as a sweetener in many traditional Indian desserts, such as laddu, halwa, and payasam, as well as in savory dishes like chutneys and pickles. Jaggery is also believed to have some health benefits as it contains iron, calcium, and other minerals.
Enjoy your South Indian style cilantro chutney with jaggery and jalapenos!
You got to blend it in the last step 🙂